There are plenty of covers of Wicked Game, but Maudlin Strangers’ rendition stands out as one of the best. Their version has a grungy, haunting edge, with Jake Hays’ distinctive vocals layered in fuzzed-out guitars and atmospheric electronics that give the track a darker, more ethereal quality compared to the original.

Formed in 2010 by Los Angeles native Jake Hays, Maudlin Strangers began as a solo indie rock project. After a series of independent releases and the formation of a full band with close friends, they signed with BMG/Vagrant Records, releasing the critically acclaimed Overdose EP in 2015. Their music quickly gained attention, leading to tours across the US and Canada with acts like Bad Suns and Cold War Kids. After a brief hiatus in 2016, Maudlin Strangers re-emerged in 2023 with a fresh lineup, including original member Richie Gonzales (drums), Alexander “Schmorgle” Morgan (guitar/keys), and Drew Bruchs (bass).

Their version of Wicked Game would be a great fit for playlists like Indie Rock Anthems, Sad Songs to Cry To, Alt-Rock Essentials, Chill Indie Vibes, and Haunting Covers.

Bella Rios‘ new single “Right Now” fits well on playlists like Bedroom Pop Vibes, Indie Pop Essentials, Melancholy Hits, and Chill Study Beats. The song captures her final year at Princeton University, reflecting on the present moment.

Bella is currently balancing her senior year in Economics with her music career. “My songwriting process is pretty structured, so it all kind of generally follows the same flow. I start with chord progression and I’m the most meticulous about lyrics, so those come last to me. I want to be very precise in what I’m saying because that’s where my ears are drawn as a listener, so I want that to be really honest, authentic, and intentional.”

“Right Now” follows the release of her single “Options” and her debut EP Sincerely last spring. The track offers a personal look at Bella’s current experience, making it a relatable addition to her music catalog.

Allison Park’s song “Hypocrite” would seamlessly fit into playlists such as Sad Pop Essentials, Late Night Jazz & Pop, Emotional Piano Ballads, Dark Pop Vibes, and Reflections: Introspective Pop. The track, with its haunting and melancholic vibe, showcases Allison’s unique blend of dark pop, modern jazz, and piano ballad elements. A Nashville-based artist originally from Pittsburgh, Allison has spent years honing her craft across different genres, from country music to pop and jazz influences.

Her career began opening for legendary acts like The Vogues and The Holidays, and later performing alongside artists like Jason Aldean, Blake Shelton, and Miranda Lambert. At the age of 19, she signed to an independent label and released her EP Listen, with her song “Holding Me” landing at number 30 on Billboard’s Hot AC Tracks chart. After touring with Plain White T’s and moving to Los Angeles, Allison shifted her focus to writing and artist development.

Today, she continues to create music with a deep emphasis on authenticity and self-reflection, releasing songs like “Hypocrite” that resonate with listeners on a personal level. Along with her music, she hosts the podcast In Tune with Allison Park, where she explores music and mindfulness, further solidifying her role as both an artist and advocate for creativity in all its forms.

Watch out for Nashville-based singer-songwriter Essy and the synth-pop track “Moonlight.” On Moonlight, she delivers a dreamy, dance-driven, synth-laden sound reminiscent of Taylor Swift, fitting seamlessly into Indie Pop, Fresh Dance Pop, Chill Dance, and New Pop Picks playlists.

With lines like “I’ll be your moonlight… I’ll be your moon / I’ll be the candle… In your room,” the song captures a hypnotic, ethereal energy.

Essy has written for artists signed to Atlantic Records (Ship Wrek), Interscope (PHANGS), Sony UK (ZOOKEEPERS), and Warner UK.

Lauren Presley’s “Can I Be Happy” delivers a powerful pop rock sound with an anthemic chorus. As she sings, “Is there someone that can make me happy?” the track echoes the energy of early Avril Lavigne and Kelly Clarkson. Perfect for Spotify playlists like Fierce Femmes, Rock the World, New Pop Picks, and Pop Rising.

Born in Redwater, Texas, and now based in Nashville, Lauren Presley is a rising pop artist blending alt-pop and dark pop influences. Inspired by artists like Tate McRae, Halsey, Fletcher, and Nessa Barrett, she has gained attention, including a cover feature on Fresh Finds: Pop on Spotify. Her debut single, “A Little Longer,” has over 1 million streams on Spotify and 5.6 million views on YouTube. With her raw authenticity and ability to connect through music, Lauren is an artist to watch as she continues to grow.